31 Mains and Sides That'll Make Your Easter Dinner Feel Effortless

Easter dinner doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. I’ve put together a list of mains and sides that will make your holiday meal feel special without overwhelming you in the kitchen. These easy-to-make dishes will save you time and effort while still impressing your guests, so you can focus on what really matters which is enjoying the day.

A plate with slices of roast pork, mashed potatoes, glazed carrots, and garnished with herbs. Rolls and a side dish in the background. — Photo credit: Tessie's Table.

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Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Sliced glazed carrots garnished with herbs on a fork, with more on a plate in the background. — Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These air fryer carrots come together quickly and bring just the right amount of sweetness to the table. They’re a great side dish for anyone trying to keep holiday cooking easy without giving up flavor. The texture turns out tender with just a bit of crispness on the edges. It’s the kind of recipe that frees up oven space while still looking like you put in extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Homemade Brown Gravy without Drippings

A spoon full of gravy in a white bowl. — Homemade Brown Gravy without Drippings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This gravy gives you a rich, smooth finish without needing pan drippings, which makes it one less thing to worry about during a busy holiday meal. It’s ideal for making ahead or whipping up last-minute. The depth of flavor works with everything from mashed potatoes to roasted meats. It’s a simple addition that helps the rest of the meal feel pulled together.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Brown Gravy without Drippings

Braised Brussels Sprouts

Plate of roasted Brussels sprouts with lemon slices, served with a creamy sauce. A fork holds one sprout above the dish. — Braised Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These Brussels sprouts are cooked low and slow for a tender result that’s far from the bitter versions you might remember. The braising method makes them feel like they took a lot more effort than they actually do. They hold their own next to any main dish without being too fussy. This is a go-to if you want something green on the plate that feels comforting.
Get the Recipe: Braised Brussels Sprouts

Marinated Lamb Chops

Plate of grilled lamb chops with asparagus, onions, parsley garnish, and a lemon wedge. A fork holds a piece of lamb. — Marinated Lamb Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Lamb chops can look fancy on the table, but this version keeps the prep simple while still giving you bold flavor. The marinade does most of the work ahead of time, making them a smart choice for holidays. They cook quickly and pair well with most spring sides. This is one of those main dishes that impresses without adding stress.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Lamb Chops

Air Fried Ham with Keto Glaze

Sliced roasted ham garnished with sprigs of rosemary on a white plate. — Air Fried Ham with Keto Glaze. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

The air fryer takes the guesswork out of getting a ham just right, and the glaze adds a sweet contrast without too much sugar. It’s a fast, hands-off way to get a centerpiece on the table without babysitting the oven. This is a good choice when you want to serve something traditional with a modern shortcut. Cleanup is easier too, which helps make hosting more manageable.
Get the Recipe: Air Fried Ham with Keto Glaze

Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Four twice baked potatoes in a small baking dish. — Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These loaded potatoes are hearty enough to almost count as a main dish and pair with just about anything. They’re the kind of side people always go back for seconds on, and the prep can be done ahead. They look like you spent a lot of time on them, even though it’s mostly simple steps. Perfect for when you want something warm, filling, and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes garnished with parsley, set on a pink cloth napkin, with whole potatoes and a grater in the background. — Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Mashed red potatoes give you that creamy texture with a little more character than your usual mash. The garlic brings depth without being overpowering. They’re easy to prep early and warm up well, which is a big help when juggling oven space. It’s the kind of side that rounds out any Easter plate without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

Bacon Green Beans

Close-up of a plate with sautéed green beans and bacon pieces, with a fork spearing a few beans. — Bacon Green Beans. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These green beans are cooked until just tender and tossed with crumbled bacon, which makes them feel like a step up from the usual. The short ingredient list keeps things simple, but the flavor feels dressed up. They cook quickly and don’t need much attention, which is always a plus during a holiday meal. You’ll get that mix of fresh and smoky that goes with any main.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Green Beans

Spinach Bacon Salad

A fork holds a bite of spinach salad with chopped eggs, bacon, and cheese over a wooden bowl filled with the same salad. Two blurred bowls are in the background. — Spinach Bacon Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This salad is hearty enough to hold its own next to roasted meats but still brings a fresh bite to the table. The bacon adds just enough richness to make it feel like more than just greens. It’s easy to prep ahead and toss right before serving. If you want a no-fuss option that still feels thought-out, this checks the box.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Bacon Salad

Pink Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs with bright pink edges and yellow filling topped with sliced onions arranged on a wooden board. — Pink Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These deviled eggs get their color from a beet pickling method, which adds flavor and a visual pop without extra steps. They’re easy to make ahead and always disappear fast at the table. The filling is classic, with a slight twist that doesn’t overcomplicate things. This is a great option if you want something that stands out without adding more work.
Get the Recipe: Pink Deviled Eggs

Buttermilk Biscuits

Biscuit cut in half on a white plate, one half with a pat of butter on top, next to a cloth napkin and a bowl of jam in the background. — Buttermilk Biscuits. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Flaky, buttery biscuits are a holiday staple, and these come together quickly with minimal effort. The buttermilk adds richness, and the result is perfectly golden brown on the outside and soft on the inside. They make a great addition to any meal, especially when you want something to sop up gravy or sauce. These biscuits are quick to prepare but taste like they’ve been perfected over years.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

Oven Baked Asparagus with Parmesan

Tongs holding roasted asparagus with grated cheese on a white platter, surrounded by lemon slices. — Oven Baked Asparagus with Parmesan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This asparagus recipe is a simple way to add a fresh, savory touch to your meal without extra hassle. The Parmesan gives it a nice, crispy finish, and baking in the oven frees up space on the stove. It’s an easy, healthy side dish that feels special enough for a holiday. Perfect for when you need a green side that’s quick and doesn’t require babysitting.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Asparagus with Parmesan

Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

Sliced ham with orange slices and grapes, garnished with parsley on a platter. — Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This air fryer ham has a tangy-sweet orange glaze that adds flavor without making you stand over the stove. It’s quick to prepare, leaving you more time for other dishes, and gives a beautiful golden-brown finish. The glaze has just the right amount of sweetness to complement the salty ham. It’s a simple but impressive dish that will make your holiday dinner feel more festive with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

Kale Potato and Sausage Soup

Soup with minced meat, greens, and diced potatoes in a wooden ladle. — Kale Potato and Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This soup is warm and hearty, filled with the perfect balance of earthy kale and savory sausage. It’s an easy way to get something filling on the table that doesn’t take a lot of time or energy. The potatoes add creaminess without the need for heavy cream, making it a light yet hearty choice. This is a great dish to serve when you want comfort food that’s easy to put together.
Get the Recipe: Kale Potato and Sausage Soup

Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Baked macaroni and cheese topped with breadcrumbs and bacon in a white dish, with a serving on a plate beside it. — Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This mac and cheese recipe is a crowd-pleaser with a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s rich but not too heavy. It’s an easy side dish that pairs with almost any main course, bringing comfort to the table. The recipe takes minimal effort but yields a mac and cheese that tastes like it’s been made from scratch. A perfect addition to any holiday meal when you want something creamy and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven

Roasted zucchini slices with melted cheese and herbs sit enticingly on a white plate, as a fork elegantly holds one piece. — Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

Roasted zucchini is a great way to use up extra vegetables, and the Parmesan adds a crispy finish that makes it feel extra special. This recipe is easy to prep and can be cooked quickly, making it ideal for a busy holiday dinner. It’s a versatile side that pairs well with just about any main. The simplicity of the ingredients means it won’t take much time but still tastes like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven

Lemon Green Pea Salad

This refreshing salad combines crisp greens with the sweet bite of peas, all topped with a zesty lemon dressing. It’s an easy dish to throw together, and the fresh ingredients are a perfect contrast to heavier mains. The bright citrus flavor adds a lightness to the table, making it feel like a breath of fresh air. It’s a go-to for when you need a quick, colorful side that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Green Pea Salad

Cheese Biscuits

These cheese biscuits are golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with a cheesy kick that everyone loves. They’re quick to whip up and don’t require much time or effort, yet they look impressive next to any main course. Their cheesy goodness makes them a great addition to any meal, especially when you want something warm and filling. Perfect for when you need to get dinner ready with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Biscuits

Beef Tenderloin Roast with Red Wine Sauce

This beef tenderloin roast looks elegant but is surprisingly easy to prepare. The red wine sauce adds a rich, savory depth that takes this dish to the next level without complicating your meal. It’s a great choice for when you want to serve a showstopper without a lot of prep work. This roast cooks up beautifully and is a perfect fit for a holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tenderloin Roast with Red Wine Sauce

Bok Choy Soup

Light yet flavorful, this bok choy soup makes for a comforting dish that won’t weigh you down. It’s a quick and easy option that doesn’t require much time, allowing you to focus on the other elements of your meal. The bok choy adds a mild, savory note, and it’s the perfect side for anyone looking for a lighter, vegetable-forward dish. A simple and healthy addition to any holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Bok Choy Soup

Roast Leg of Lamb

This roast leg of lamb is an effortless yet impressive centerpiece for your holiday table. The garlic and rosemary bring out the natural flavors of the lamb, while the slow roasting ensures tenderness without needing much attention. It’s a great option when you want something special for dinner but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. This recipe gives you a beautiful, flavorful roast with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Roast Leg of Lamb

Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a comforting, one-dish dinner that’s perfect for the holidays. Ground meat and vegetables are topped with creamy mashed potatoes, making it a hearty option that doesn’t require much prep. The best part? You can make it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat. This dish makes for a filling and easy addition to your Easter meal.
Get the Recipe: Shepherd’s Pie

Pollo al Limone

This chicken in lemon sauce is fresh, light, and simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for an effortless holiday dinner. The tangy lemon brightens up the chicken, while the herbs add a lovely depth of flavor. It’s a dish that feels special but won’t take you away from other tasks in the kitchen. It’s an easy-to-make main that looks and tastes like a showstopper.
Get the Recipe: Pollo al Limone

Salmon Risotto

Creamy risotto paired with tender salmon makes for a rich yet light dish that will impress guests without much hassle. The combination of the two ingredients creates a beautiful contrast, with the risotto being creamy and the salmon flaky. It’s a simple but refined dish that brings a touch of elegance to your meal. The best part is that it’s quick and doesn’t require much time on your part.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Risotto

Stuffed Mushrooms with Crab

These stuffed mushrooms are filled with crab and a mix of savory seasonings, creating an appetizer that looks elegant but is easy to prepare. They come together quickly and are perfect for serving alongside your main course or as an appetizer. The richness of the crab pairs beautifully with the earthy mushrooms, making it a crowd-pleaser. These bite-sized treats bring sophistication to the table without extra hassle.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms with Crab

Picnic Ham

A picnic ham is an affordable, easy-to-make option that’s perfect for large gatherings. The slow-cooked ham becomes tender and flavorful without requiring much effort, making it a great choice for busy hosts. It’s a versatile dish that can be served hot or cold, giving you flexibility when planning your meal. This simple yet flavorful ham is a great addition to your Easter dinner spread.
Get the Recipe: Picnic Ham

Pork Tenderloin with Mustard Sauce

Pork tenderloin with mustard sauce offers a savory, tangy flavor that will complement any side dish. The mustard sauce is quick to prepare and adds a nice kick without being overpowering. This dish looks elegant on the table but doesn’t take much time to cook. It’s a great option for those who want a main dish that feels refined yet simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Pork Tenderloin with Mustard Sauce

Baked Ham

Baked ham is a holiday favorite that’s easy to prepare, with a rich, sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that can be served alongside all your favorite sides. The slow bake ensures that the ham is tender and juicy, making it a reliable go-to for family meals. You can make this ahead of time and have it ready to serve with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ham

Crock Pot Ham

Using the crock pot for ham is a game-changer, saving you time and effort while still giving you a tender, flavorful result. The ham cooks slowly, allowing the flavors to really absorb, and the best part is that it frees up your oven for other dishes. It’s a hands-off way to prepare a dish that’s always a hit. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for an easy and stress-free main dish for their Easter dinner.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Ham

Vegan Cannelloni with Asparagus and Béchamel

This vegan cannelloni is a fresh, light choice that feels like a gourmet meal without the complicated preparation. The creamy béchamel sauce pairs perfectly with the tender asparagus, making it a comforting yet healthy option for Easter dinner. The cannelloni tubes are easy to stuff and bake, and the result is an elegant dish that will impress your guests. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for a plant-based meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cannelloni with Asparagus and Béchamel

Ribeye Roast

A ribeye roast is a fantastic main dish that’s perfect for holiday meals when you want something hearty and flavorful. The marbled fat in the ribeye ensures that the roast stays tender and juicy as it cooks, making it an effortless yet impressive centerpiece. This simple roast requires minimal prep but yields a sophisticated dish that feels like a special treat. It’s the kind of dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds without much effort on your part.
Get the Recipe: Ribeye Roast